The Coven
Author: Harper L. Woods
Spice Level: 
Release Year: 2017
The Coven of Bones series is one that lingers long after you close the book—something raw, witchy, and just a little bit wicked. You’re not just reading about a coven, you’re swept into a world where magic pulses through every shadowed corridor and the gothic atmosphere is thick enough to taste. The romance? It’s a deliciously tangled web of obsession and power, and I found myself rooting for characters I didn’t expect to like, let alone love. The headmaster, Alaric Grayson Thorne, is the kind of brooding, possessive antihero who walks straight out of your favorite dark romance daydreams and into your nightmares. Willow, the protagonist, is all sharp edges and hidden strength—her connection to nature and her powers is mesmerizing, and watching her navigate the treacherous politics of Hollow’s Grove University is a treat for anyone who craves a heroine with backbone and bite.
Now, let’s talk spice. This series simmers with tension, and the chemistry between the leads is undeniable, but it never tips into gratuitous territory. I’d rate the spice factor a solid 3.1—enough to keep things steamy and swoony, but not so much that it overshadows the plot or the character development. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is handled with a deft touch, and the push and pull between Willow and Alaric is equal parts frustrating and addictive. There’s a sense that every stolen glance, every heated exchange, is a battle of wills as much as it is a flirtation. The worldbuilding is lush and immersive, with a magic system rooted in nature that feels both ancient and fresh, and the gothic academic setting is the perfect backdrop for all the angst and intrigue.
Not everything is flawless—there are moments where the plot meanders or the revenge arc feels a little undercooked, but honestly, I didn’t care. The character-driven storytelling more than makes up for any narrative hiccups, and the emotional stakes kept me glued to the page. The cliffhangers are brutal (in the best way), and I found myself desperate for the next book every time I finished one. I’ve read a lot of romantasy, and this series earns its place at #12 on my all-time list—not just for the witchy romance and steamy moments, but for the way it made me feel: obsessed, invested, and just a little bit haunted. If you’re craving a series that’s equal parts dark academia, steamy romance, and magical intrigue, Coven of Bones is a ride you won’t forget.
Back to List